Behaviourist Explanation- A01

Classical conditioning- Behaviour is learnt through a stimulus. A stimulus results in a physiological reaction. Eg Little Albert conducted by Watson and Raynor in 1920. E.g Fear of heights - If they feel sick at high places they will associate heights with nausea.

Social learning theory- Bandura suggests if we watch behaviour we will be able to recall it and replicate it. Motivated by reinforcements we will imitate and repeat behaviour. E.g If a child sees a model who is rewarded for behaviour, leads to imitation. Some phobias develope due to seeing someone else respond to the stimulus.

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Behaviourist Explanation- A02

2 supporting points for behaviourist explanation.

1. Focuses on behaviour- Over comes the ethical issue of being labelled 'abnormal' instead sees the behaviour as adaptive.

2. Focuses on functioning- If there is no harm to the individual or others, then there is no reason to label them with a 'mental disorder'.

2 criticisms for behaviourist explanation.

1. Ignores the causes- 'symptom situation' ignores the causes of the illness and just looks at the symptoms.